American Near East Refugee Aid (Anera) has announced the resumption of its operations in Gaza after a temporary pause following a tragic airstrike that claimed the lives of seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen (WCK) on April 1.
The decision to temporarily halt operations was made in response to the devastating events that unfolded in Gaza, where staff members faced immense challenges and risks amidst the ongoing conflict. Anera's president and CEO, Sean Carroll, emphasized the difficult nature of this decision, highlighting the impact of the loss and destruction experienced by their team.
Following the killing of Anera staff member Mousa Shawwa and the subsequent attack on the WCK aid workers, Anera made the necessary choice to pause aid operations on April 2. Carroll expressed that Israeli authorities have assured certain measures to enhance the protection of humanitarian aid workers in Gaza, including Anera's staff.
With the support of their Gaza team, Anera has determined that the conditions have sufficiently changed to allow for the resumption of their crucial humanitarian efforts in Gaza. The organization has now resumed full operations to provide meals, food parcels, hygiene kits, tents, medical treatments, and other essential aid to families facing dire circumstances in the region.
This decision marks a significant step towards continuing vital humanitarian assistance in Gaza and supporting those in need during these challenging times.
